Melbourne: Private Helicopter Flight to the 12 Apostles

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience the iconic 12 Apostles, a private helicopter ride from Melbourne offers an unforgettable perspective. For around $1,187 per person, this 5-hour tour combines the thrill of flying in a private chopper with some generous free time to soak in the scenery at your own pace. You’ll fly over the Great Ocean Road and land near the famous limestone stacks, with options to explore the Gibson Steps or enjoy panoramic views from Castle Rock.

What we really love about this experience is the guaranteed window seat, which ensures you’ll get uninterrupted views of the coastline’s dramatic formations, and the personalized touch of a private flight, making it feel more like a special occasion than a standard tour. Plus, the two hours of free time once on the ground allow you to tailor your visit — whether by walking down the Gibson Steps to the beach or climbing up to Castle Rock for that perfect photo.

A possible consideration is the cost, which is somewhat steep for some travelers, but the exclusivity, comfort, and the incredible views make it a solid value for those who cherish unique experiences. This tour is best suited for travelers who want something special — those who appreciate scenic vistas, a touch of adventure, and the chance to create personalized memories at one of Australia’s most stunning coastal landmarks.

Key Points

• Unmatched perspectives: Enjoy sweeping views of the 12 Apostles from the comfort of a guaranteed window seat.
• Exclusive experience: The private helicopter and landing make this tour feel personal and special.
• Flexible exploration time: You get two hours at the site to explore Gibson Steps or Castle Rock.
• High-quality service: The reviews praise knowledgeable guides, comfortable flights, and a sense of safety.
• Photo opportunities: Plenty of chances for stunning photographs both from the helicopter and on foot.
• Weather dependent: Bad weather can lead to rescheduling, so flexibility is needed if conditions aren’t ideal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the Melbourne Private Helicopter Tour?

This tour takes you beyond the usual viewpoint, offering a bird’s-eye vantage point that’s hard to match with land-based trips. We loved the way the helicopter’s large windows frame the limestone stacks, making every glance outside feel like a postcard. Hearing from reviewers, such as Katherine from the US who called it “AMAZING,” it’s clear that seeing the rock formations from above elevates the experience and provides a perspective impossible to replicate on foot.

The two hours of free time at the site is a great touch, allowing you to decide whether you want to walk down the Gibson Steps, get close to the waters, or climb Castle Rock for panoramic views. This flexibility is especially appreciated by travelers who want to maximize their time at this iconic spot without feeling rushed.

Another important aspect is the professionalism of the pilot — one reviewer mentioned Ruben, who made them feel safe and comfortable throughout. This emphasis on safety, combined with noise-cancelling headsets and a guaranteed window seat, means you can relax and fully enjoy the scenery.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a check-in at the Rotor One helicopter base in Melbourne, where you’ll find the familiar red door marked ‘Melbourne Heli.’ After a brief safety briefing and photo opportunity in front of the helicopter, you’ll settle into a private, comfortable aircraft designed for scenic flights.

The flight itself lasts about 1.25 hours, during which you’ll fly along the Great Ocean Road, arguably one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. From above, you’ll see the rugged coastline, lush greenery, and the turquoise waters crashing against the limestone stacks. The highlight, of course, is the 12 Apostles, a series of towering limestone columns formed by natural erosion over millions of years.

You’ll land near the 12 Apostles area, where your free time begins. You might choose to descend the Gibson Steps, a stairway that takes you down to the beach to see the stacks from below and capture spectacular photos, or walk up to Castle Rock, a prominent viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the coast and stacks.

During the free time, you’ll have ample opportunity to take photos, enjoy the scenery, or simply sit and marvel at the landscape’s raw beauty. If opting for an extra treat, you could arrange a private landing at a winery for lunch (note this is an add-on and requires contact with the activity provider).

The return flight offers a different perspective, flying back along the coast and over the lush surroundings of Victoria, giving you a comprehensive view of this extraordinary part of Australia.

What We Love About This Tour

Beyond the jaw-dropping scenery, what sets this experience apart is the personalized nature of a private helicopter. It’s not a crowded, impersonal tour; it’s a tailored journey where you’re assured a guaranteed window seat, ensuring an unobstructed view. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and pilots—notably, Ruben, who made them feel safe and well taken care of.

The photo opportunities are spectacular. From the aircraft’s large windows, you’ll capture the limestone stacks with waves crashing below, while on the ground, the Gibson Steps and Castle Rock provide different but equally stunning angles. The free time is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to savor the moment rather than rushing through.

Another point worth mentioning is the combination of adventure and comfort. The helicopter ride offers an adrenaline rush, but the private setting combined with noise-cancelling headsets and a smooth flight makes it a relaxed, luxurious experience.

Considerations and Who This Tour Suits Best

While the experience is undoubtedly impressive, the price point may be a barrier for some. At over $1,187 per person, it’s a premium outing, but that cost covers the exclusivity, comfort, and spectacular views that are hard to find elsewhere. Also, the tour’s schedule depends on weather conditions; if the weather isn’t cooperative, you might need to reschedule, which could be inconvenient if your trip is tight.

The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years or individuals over 136 kg (300 lbs), mainly due to safety and comfort reasons. If you’re someone who values flexibility, or prefers a more budget-friendly option, you might want to consider other ways to see the coast, but if you’re after a luxurious, personalized adventure and have the budget, this tour delivers.

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Why It’s Worth the Investment

This helicopter trip is more than just a scenic flight; it’s a personalized adventure that elevates the classic Great Ocean Road experience. For those who love spectacular vistas, unique photography opportunities, and a touch of luxury, you’ll find it well worth the cost. The positive reviews reflect a consistent high standard, with travelers appreciating the safety, guides, and breathtaking views.

The free exploration time is a big plus, giving you the flexibility to make this experience your own — whether that’s by capturing photos, walking down to the beach, or soaking up the scenery from above. It’s a perfect choice for couples celebrating a special occasion, families with older children, or anyone looking to splurge on an extraordinary perspective of Australia’s coastline.

FAQs

Is this tour weather dependent?
Yes, the helicopter flight relies on good weather conditions. If there’s low cloud, rain, or high winds, the activity provider may need to reschedule, and they will contact you to find a suitable alternative date.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour begins at the Rotor One helicopter base in Melbourne. You need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the flight?
The actual helicopter flight lasts about 1.25 hours, but the entire experience, including check-in and free time, takes around 5 hours.

Can I bring my camera or smartphone?
Absolutely. The helicopter is equipped with large windows, and reviewers note the incredible photo opportunities. Just make sure your device is securely stored to avoid damage during the flight.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 3 years old. The experience is best suited for older children, teens, and adults who can handle the helicopter environment comfortably.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, participants over 136 kg (300 lbs) are not suitable for this tour, mainly for safety and comfort reasons.

Final thoughts

If you’re after a luxurious, intimate adventure that offers spectacular views of one of Australia’s most famous landmarks, this private helicopter tour to the 12 Apostles hits all the right notes. It combines the thrill of flight, stunning scenery, and the freedom to explore at your own pace once on the ground.

While the cost might give some pause, the quality of the experience — especially the knowledgeable guides, the unbeatable aerial perspective, and the flexibility of free time — makes it a worthy splurge for those who want a memorable highlight of their trip.

Perfect for travelers who crave adventure with comfort, this tour promises a breathtaking viewing platform that can’t be matched from land, ensuring you’ll leave with images and memories to cherish for a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: